I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the ultimate sacrifice a soldier makes for their country, underscoring the valor associated with such bravery.
Abraham Lincoln highlights the profound dedication and courage of soldiers who risk their lives for the greater good of their country. He suggests that while everyone may contribute in different ways, the soldier's willingness to sacrifice their life represents the highest form of merit and loyalty. This recognition serves to honor the commitments of those who serve in the armed forces, reflecting on the nature of sacrifice and heroism.
Themes
SoldierSacrificeCourageCountryLifeService
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech honoring veterans, one might say, 'As Abraham Lincoln stated, the highest merit is due to the soldier who sacrifices for their country.'
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
The shepherd drives the wolf from the sheep's throat, for which the sheep thanks the shepherd as his liberator, while the wolf denounces him for the same act as the destroyer of liberty. Plainly, the sheep and the wolf are not agreed upon a definition of liberty.
Abraham LincolnRead
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